A LANCASTER couple have climbed one of the world's highest mountains to raise funds for an organisation they credit with saving their nephew's life.

David and Angela Croxall, of Bowerham, climbed Kilimanjaro, the highest peak on the African continent and the world's highest free standing mountain.

The nine day climb was far from easy and many who've tried before them have failed, but says David, Lancaster City Council's elections officer, "Despite some of the hardship, it was the best experience of our lives, especially knowing that so many of our families, friends and colleagues back home were willing us to the top." Their nephew, little Lewis Gillin, was one on 7th September - the same day that David and Angela travelled to Tanzania. He was born four weeks premature by emergency Caesarean when serious complications in the pregnancy developed.

Thanks to the dedicated staff and lifesaving equipment in the Special Care Baby Unit at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary he soon made a full recovery.

His mum, Cath, who works in the communications office at Lancaster Town Hall, said, "Well they've done it and I am very proud of them both. The last leg to the summit sounded just awful. Well done".

Speaking about the 19,335ft climb David commented: "At times, the effects of the altitude made the climbing really difficult.

"However, reaching the summit in time to see the sunrise over the plains of Africa, was a magical experience and we feel privileged to have seen.

"It was all the more worthwhile knowing that we were raising money for such a good cause, when all the money is collected we hope to have raised £3,000.

"We would both like to thank everyone who has supported our efforts and for the many generous donations".